Because of this, it is in your best interest to explore your legal options before you are convicted of these charges. An experienced criminal defense lawyer may be able to use the details of your case to mount a solid defense. A strong defense created by an experienced criminal defense lawyer could lead to the charges being dropped or reduced to a considerably less serious offense.
What Constitutes Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon?
Under North Carolina General Statute 14-87, Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon is a felony criminal offense in North Carolina defined as stealing another person’s personal property while using or threatening to use a firearm or other dangerous weapon.
A defendant could be charged with Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon if their crime meets two conditions:
- The defendant took or attempted to take property from another person or a dwelling, business, bank, or another facility while another person was present.
- The defendant carried out the robbery using or threatening to use a firearm or other dangerous weapon.
- A person’s life was threatened or endangered by the defendant.
Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon is classified as a Class D felony. The presence of a weapon, which can endanger the life of anyone in its presence, makes this crime more serious than other forms of robbery.
Defense Strategies for Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon Cases
While Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon is a serious charge, it is still possible to defend yourself against the prosecution. With support from a legal professional, you may be able to benefit from any of the following defense strategies:
- Arguing that you did not make any threats
- Arguing that you did not take anyone’s belongings
- Raising doubts about the prosecutor’s version of events before the jury
When you don’t want to go to trial, a lawyer can communicate with the prosecuting attorney on your behalf to try to arrange a plea offer. Consider speaking with an attorney from our office today to learn more about how a lawyer can help you.
What Are the Penalties for a Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon Charge?
Under General Statute 14-87, Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon Is a Class D felony. Though this is not the highest degree of felony, this crime still carries some steep penalties like jail time. Because robbery with a dangerous weapon is a felony, you could risk a lengthy prison sentence if convicted. You may be required to pay fines and be placed on probation in addition to a prison sentence.
The penalties for a Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon can include:
- A maximum sentence of 204 months in jail
- Community service
- Court fees
- Fines
- Probation
- Loss of the right to own or possess a firearm
- Loss of the right to vote
- Loss of the right to serve on a jury
- Loss of the right to work in state offices or occupations requiring federal or state licenses
If you are found guilty of Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon, you may face some serious penalties, which might have a long-term impact on your social and professional life. It’s not always easy to defend against serious criminal charges, but an effective criminal defense lawyer may be able to spare you from the full extent of these penalties.
Learn More From the Knowledgeable Legal Professionals at King Law
You shouldn’t overlook the impact having a quality lawyer can have on the outcome of your case. Whether you’re taking a plea deal or going to court, your choice of a criminal defense lawyer could mean the difference between harsh penalties and freedom. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer with years of experience and access to valuable resources is a valuable asset to any case.
Our legal staff at King Law is dedicated to assisting clients in achieving the best possible outcomes for their cases. We are highly skilled legal professionals who may be able to use our knowledge and resources to help you. To build a strong defense strategy, we will conduct our own thorough investigation into the charges leveled against you and carefully examine the details of your case. Please fill out our online contact form or call us at (888) 748-KING to schedule an appointment where we can start evaluating your case.